Clarke County School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. 

The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. To qualify for the Best Communities designation, CCSD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

“In a town with a rich musical history like Athens, the opportunities that we can offer all of our children through music education are immense,” said Dr. Demond Means, Superintendent of Clarke County School District.  “This designation is further evidence of our commitment to offer every child the very best in all aspects of education.”

This award recognizes that CCSD is leading the way with learning opportunities as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act. The legislation guides implementation in the states and replaces the No Child Left Behind Act which was often criticized for an overemphasis on testing-while leaving behind subjects such as music. ESSA recommends music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children.